Space Quest 0: Replicated

Space Quest 0: Repliated is a fan-made Space Quest prequel, made in the style of the original 2 space quest games, and using the same AGI engine. It's been a long time since I've played a game with a typing interface (instead of the point and click icon interface). Keep in mind the AGI (Adventure Game Interperter) engine is 1984 technology, developed for King's Quest 1. It's really old stuff.

The game is designed as a prequel to the space quest series, but most of the plot references are given to Space Quest 2. Although you don't visit any duplicate locations, most of the game takes place on planet Labion (where most of the SQ2 game takes place).

Anyway, Roger Wilco (our hero) wakes up from one of his infamous on-the-job-naps to find everyone is dead on his space station. He escapes to the jungle planet of Labion and... well, things go from there. He discovers (and attempts to thwarts) an evil plot to create a clone army.

The game did a great job of visually capturing the feel of the first two Space Quest games. The caverns felt like they were straight out of SQ1; and the jungle planet felt like SQ2. The space ship that you pilot (later in the game) was even reminiscent of SQ3. However, the game lacked the humor inherent in the SQ series, sticking instead to Star Trek and Star Wars references.

The audio was great. I still love to hear that original theme, in all its beep beep glory.

Get the game here. It is interesting to note that Sierra's current owner has not shut down the two Space Quest fan projects, even though KQ9 has been got a nasty lawyer letter.